Factors that suggest trafficking

Although it is not always clear whether someone is in possession for the purpose of trafficking, the police often rely on a number of surrounding circumstances to lay a charge. For example, a person might be charged with possession for the purpose of trafficking if they have a large quantity of drugs in their possession, or if they are caught with several small packages of drugs prepared for individual sale and an accompanying list of names. In the most obvious situation, if a person is caught actually selling drugs or trying to sell drugs, they will be charged with trafficking, even if the quantity they are trying to sell is small. Importing charges will also be laid if a person is caught entering Canada with illegal drugs in their possession.

Penalties for trafficking

The maximum penalty for drug trafficking is life in prison. Most often, however, the penalty given by the court includes less jail time and probation. In deciding the severity of the penalty, the judge will consider many factors, including the type of substance being sold, (for example, marijuana vs cocaine or heroin), how much of the substance was found in the possession of the accused, and whether the accused had a prior criminal record.

What is production (cultivation) of an illegal substance?

Production of an illegal substance is also a serious offence under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. The Act states that production can include things such as:

manufacturing, synthesizing or using any means of altering the chemical or physical properties of the substance, or

cultivating, propagating or harvesting the substance or any living thing from which the substance may be extracted or otherwise obtained, and

includes an offer to produce.

Penalties for production (cultivation)

The penalties for production or cultivation of an illegal substance range from maximum jail sentences between 3 years to life, depending on the quantity and type of substance. For example, the cultivation of marijuana in large quantities now carries a maximum jail term of 14 years, whereas the production of cocaine or heroin can carry a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.

Trafficking in, or the production of, an illegal substance are serious offences, with serious consequences. If you have been charged with either of these offences, you should consult a lawyer for assistance.